Toyota Reveals Smaller, Sportier Prius: Model C [Video]

Unbelievably, the Toyota Prius is nearly fifteen years old, and now Toyota has revealed a smaller version of the hugely popular car: the Prius Model C (pictured).

This new 5 door Prius C is a similar size to the existing fuel efficient Toyota Yaris, but with the now familiar hybrid drivetrain. Toyota is touting a very impressive 50 miles-per gallon around town for this zippy little car. Therefore, this new Prius will boast the best fuel economy for any non-plug-in car. The car will include a 1.5 liter gasoline engine, which is of course smaller and lighter than the standard Prius.

The Prius C will hit the market in Japan this December, and in the U.S. in early 2012, shortly after the Detroit Auto Show. Apparently it may not be available in Europe.

No surprises that the Model C is aimed at a younger city driver than the standard Prius. It has “a more youthful expression and a sportier dynamic character”, as Toyota puts it in the press release.